Can the Switch 2 use an old microSD card?
Nintendo Switch 2 and Xbox storage, ranked by value on Amazon.co.uk
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Not for games. The Switch 2 runs and stores games only on microSD Express cards. An ordinary UHS-I microSD card from an original Switch can be read to copy screenshots and videos across, and nothing more. Look for the word Express, or the EX logo, on the card.
Old card vs Express card in a Switch 2
| UHS-I microSD | microSD Express | |
|---|---|---|
| Store and run Switch 2 games | No | Yes |
| Copy screenshots and videos | Yes | Yes |
| Interface | UHS-I | PCIe and NVMe (SD 7.1) |
| Works in older devices | Yes | Yes, at UHS-I speed |
About "UHS-I compatible" on Express listings
An Express card falls back to UHS-I in older devices, so listings mention UHS-I. That describes backward compatibility, not a limitation in the Switch 2. Cards that qualify are on Switch 2 microSD Express cards.
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Frequently asked questions
Will my Switch 1 microSD card work in a Switch 2?
Only for copying screenshots and videos. It cannot hold Switch 2 games.
How do I know a card is microSD Express?
It says Express on the card and packaging, usually with an EX mark.
Can I use a microSD Express card in my old Switch?
Yes. It runs at UHS-I speed there.
Why did Nintendo require Express?
Express cards are far faster, which Switch 2 games rely on.
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Last updated: 2026-10-21 06:04:07 UTC. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date indicated on Amazon.co.uk and are subject to change. Any price displayed at the time of purchase will apply. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON SERVICES LLC. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED AS IS AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.